Silver lining: Doing things with your child, and for your child, make some of the best images from a family session. I loved this expecting mama's comment that her lovely toddler probably wondered what got in to his parents. For him, our photoshoot felt like the best playdate ever. No doubt everyone took a nap that afternoon.

Tip: Make note of a game you play with your child that you know they love. Tell your photographer ahead of time so they can incorporate it into the session.

Just when I lay down some edict on what you should not wear, some kid comes along to prove me wrong. Overalls are being taken off the do not wear list - as long as you can rock them like J does here. On a baby, I found the bib always rose up over their chin.

The plain truth is the whole family pulls together a great look. Colors that tie in with each other, good textures, shapes and patterns. It feels authentic to their personal style, and that's what matters most.

A pretty new walker with all the right wardrobe choices. Floral and light-hearted patterns add a pop of color or brightness when she wants to stand out from her background. A few pairs of bottoms because you know she'll get the first ones dirty within 5 minutes. The texture of mom's shirt and necklace tie in with her daughter's outfits, and dad looks casually pulled together in a soft linen shirt. Plus it's perfect for snuggling against when you need a moment of downtime.

Thinking about leaving the city for a relaxed change of pace?All you need is two Ivy League degrees, preferably one with a minor in chemistry to make your own kefir, and keep those cloth diapers white. Plus let's just throw in an animal husbandry certificate of achievement to ensure the bee hive thrives and the horses (not shown) are healthy. Did I fail to mention her 3 year old and 2 month old, plus the high school class of pubescent teenagers to whom she teaches history?